Análisis comparativo mediante elementos finitos para engranajes cónicos rectos para Acero y PA 66

Abstract

Introduction: The search for high-performance materials in the use of straight bevel gears has led to the implementation of polymer materials, which offer excellent characteristics depending on the working conditions for which they are designed. These materials reduce manufacturing costs and can provide properties that steels cannot, such as low density, shorter manufacturing time, among others.

Objective: To compare the performance of PA66 in straight bevel gears against steels like AISI 1020 steel.

Methodology: Two straight bevel gears with identical dimensions were analyzed, using two types of materials: one made of steel and the other of polymer, both with theoretically good properties for optimal performance. The gear analysis was conducted using the finite element method (FEA) in ANSYS 2022 R1 Student Edition, focusing on deformation, equivalent elastic stress, equivalent stresses, and strain energy.

Results: When gears are made of PA66, deformation values are higher compared to those made of AISI 1020 steel. This was confirmed through equivalent elastic stresses, equivalent efforts, and Von Mises stresses. As a result, PA66 exhibits higher strain energy than the studied steel.

Conclusions: After analyzing the results obtained through FEA simulations in ANSYS R1 Student Edition, it was identified that for conditions of high speeds and temperatures, steel gears such as AISI 1020 are more suitable. However, for low to medium-speed conditions, PA66 is recommended due to its lower cost, quieter operation, and ease of manufacturing. Additionally, a thermal study on the gears or a review of related articles is recommended, as temperature significantly impacts gear performance, especially for polymers. Further research into composite polymers with enhanced mechanical properties for gear applications could also be conducted to compare them with steel gears under identical conditions and dimensions.